§ 10. Mr. Probertasked the Secretary of State for Wales how many new dwellings were completed in Wales last year; and how this compares with the average for the preceding five years.
§ Mr. Ifor Davies19,360 compared with 16,070—an increase of 20 per cent.
§ Mr. ProbertI thank my hon. Friend for that very encouraging reply. Can he forecast what is likely to be the number of completions up to the end of this year, indicating separately those by local authorities and those from private sources?
§ Mr. DaviesIt is difficult to give a reliable estimate, but I am pleased to be able to assure my hon. Friend that the figures this year have been most encouraging. The Housing Subsidies Bill will offer the most generous subsidies ever given in our history to local authorities and will, indeed, encourage private builders.
§ Mr. GowerA Written Answer last Thursday showed that the total number of houses built by local authorities and for private ownership in 1966 were exactly 52 fewer than for 1965. Does the Under-Secretary describe that as dramatic success?
§ Mr. DaviesIn view of the economic position, I would regard that figure as being a very small difference. The figures for January of this year are most encouraging. I have mentioned the Housing Subsidies Bill. I would also mention the mortgage option scheme, which is a great encouragement to private builders.